The holiday season is always a joyous time filled with celebrations, gatherings, and merry chaos. While it may have been a fun-filled time for you and your family, it can often be stressful for your furry friend.

Dogs thrive on routine, and the excitement and disruptions that come with the holiday season can leave them feeling overwhelmed and anxious. So how can you help your dog ease back into their regular routine after the holiday madness? Here are some useful tips:.

1. Gradually reintroduce their schedule

Just as humans need time to readjust and settle back into their regular routine after the holidays, your dog also needs some time to adjust. Start by slowly reintroducing their regular meal times, exercise, and playtime.

Allow them to ease back into these activities at their own pace.

2. Provide a quiet space

During the holiday season, your home may have been filled with guests and loud noises, which could have caused your dog to feel overwhelmed. Create a quiet and safe space for them where they can retreat to when they need some downtime.

This could be a cozy corner with their bed, blanket, and toys.

3. Stick to familiar surroundings

If you’ve traveled during the holidays with your dog, they may have experienced new environments and surroundings. Upon returning home, maintain a sense of familiarity by keeping their bedding, toys, and other familiar items untouched.

This will provide them with a sense of security and help them readjust more easily.

4. Reinstate training sessions

Holiday festivities can often lead to a relaxation of training routines. As you ease your dog back into their regular routine, reintroduce training sessions to help them regain focus and reinforce their training command cues.

This will not only provide mental stimulation but also help them settle back into familiar routines.

If your dog was accustomed to socializing with other dogs or humans during the holiday season, gradually reintroduce these interactions.

Start with shorter and controlled playdates or walks in quieter environments before gradually increasing the duration and level of excitement. This will prevent your dog from becoming overwhelmed.

6. Regular exercise is key

During the holidays, your dog’s exercise routine may have been disrupted due to inclement weather or busy schedules. Make sure to prioritize regular exercise sessions as part of their routine again.

Engage them in physical activities they enjoy, as exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety.

7. Implement a calm and consistent bedtime routine

The holiday season can bring about late nights, loud noises, and irregular sleep patterns. As you ease your dog back into their routine, make sure to establish a calm and consistent bedtime routine.

This can include relaxing activities such as a walk, playtime, and soothing cuddles before settling them into their sleeping area.

8. Avoid sudden changes

To help your dog adjust back to their routine smoothly, avoid sudden or drastic changes. Gradually reintroduce any changes you may want to make to their diet, exercise routine, or daily activities.

Sudden changes can add to their anxiety and make readjustment more difficult.

9. Stay patient and observant

Remember that each dog is unique, and their readjustment period may vary. Some dogs may take a few days, while others may take weeks to fully settle back into their routine.

Stay patient, observe their behavior, and provide them with the support and comfort they need during this time.

10. Seek professional help if needed

If your dog seems excessively anxious or has trouble readjusting to their routine even after a reasonable amount of time, consult with a professional trainer or veterinarian.

They can provide guidance, behavioral training techniques, or recommend strategies to help your dog cope with anxiety or stress.